Census of Population and Housing: Consultation on Content and Procedures (Media Release)

MEDIA RELEASE

6 November 2012

Embargo: 11.30 am (Canberra time)

Have your say on the 2016 Census

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today released their initial proposals for the 2016 Census of Population and Housing, and is now inviting Australians to have their say.

The publication 2016 Census of Population and Housing: Consultation on content and procedures – cat. no. 2007.0 outlines the ABS's proposals around content and procedures for the 17th national Census to be held in 2016.

Its release also marks the beginning of a public consultation phase allowing interested parties to submit their proposals for improving the 2016 Census.

The Census takes a snapshot of our nation every five years. The ABS is undertaking this review to ensure its largest statistical collection remains relevant in our constantly changing society, and produces the highest quality data possible.

The ABS has identified a number of current topics that it will review for inclusion in the 2016 Census and topics that it is considering adding and excluding from the next Census.

The ABS will review topics such as Australian citizenship, ancestry, need for assistance and Internet access to assess their ongoing relevance while looking for ways of improving the data that is produced.

The ABS is researching new topics such as second residence, educational institution address, method of travel to educational institution, long-term health conditions and sources of income to better reflect today’s social and economic landscape.

ABS Director of 2016 Census Data Jenny Telford said this is a unique opportunity for Census data users and the public to have their say on the types of questions to be asked on the next Census.

"Census data assists government, business, researchers and the community to make informed decisions and plan for a brighter future,” Ms Telford said.

“Involving all Australians in the decision making process for the next Census helps us make sure the Census continues to produce a rich and valuable dataset that meets people’s needs. I encourage anyone interested in a making a submission to go to the ABS website for more information."

The consultation period is open from 6 November until 31 May 2013. To make a submission, visit www.abs.gov.au/census, read the ABS proposals in the consultation publication, and use the online form to lodge a submission.

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